Autism Introduction
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder, often referred to as ASD, is a developmental disability. Autism spectrum disorder may influence an individual’s social engagement and interactions, learning abilities and approaches to learning, and personal conduct (National Institute of Mental Health, 2022). While ASD may affect an individual’s daily life, it does not hinder the ability to live and function within the community.
Autism spectrum disorder was first observed and discovered by Dr. Leo Kanner a child psychiatrist at Johns Hopkins University in the early 1940’s (Al Ghazi, 2018). ASD recognition and identification did not occur until the third publication of the DSM (Diagnostic Statistical Manual) in 1980’s roughly forty years after being discovered (Al Ghazi, 2018). It was initially and historically described as an individual displaying seclusion from the community and society, educational/ developmental difficulties, and self-immersion (Al Ghazi, 2018). As a result of the lack of information and studies surrounding ASD, limited services existed. The presented symptoms of ASD needed to be observed to receive a diagnosis today according to the DSM-5 are tenacious difficulties with social engagement and interactions including verbal/ nonverbal interactions, emotional awareness, and forming/ maintaining relationships in addition to repetitious behaviors including actions, interactions, absorbed interests/concentrations, and sensory sensitivities (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022). The contemporary revised observed diagnostic criteria have allowed for the development of services and support focused on facilitating independence thus increasing the ability for individuals diagnosed with ASD to live and function within the community.
Stereotypes and Stereotypical Thinking
There are numerous stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding autism spectrum disorder that have changed over time. A common stereotype and misconception of ASD that has since been discredited is autism spectrum disorder being attributable and caused by emotionally unavailable parents, specifically mothers (Fletcher-Watson & Happé, 2019). This has since been disproven as the focus has aligned with neurological and brain development being the primary causation for cognitive, behavioral, and emotional conditions (Fletcher-Watson & Happé, 2019). Due to this discreditation, many stereotypes and stereotypical thinking surrounding autism spectrum disorder have changed including ASD existing only in childhood and that individuals with ASD all have learning challenges as individuals have been proven to have a variety of IQ levels (Fletcher-Watson & Happé, 2019).
Cultural Perceptions
Various cultures may differ in their perception of autism spectrum disorder specifically concerning the primary causation. Many cultures especially those that practice Catholicism, view ASD as a sign or gift from God thus seeking support from religious values prompting a positive approach and outlook (Gona et at., 2015). Conversely, some cultures may view ASD as a punishment for sin thus prompting a negative perception (Gona et at., 2015). Cultural perceptions may alter the choice of services utilized. Comprehensive care should be based on the family’s individual perception of autism spectrum disorder including biological, medical, and cultural services (Ravindran & Myers, 2012).
References
Al Ghazi, L. (2018). History of Autism. The Beginnings. Collusions or Serendipity. Journal of Educational Sciences, 19, 5–17.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 6). Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Diagnostic Criteria. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved May 26, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/hcp-dsm.html
Fletcher-Watson, S., & Happé, F. (2019). Autism: A new introduction to psychological theory and current debate. Routledge.
Gona, J. K., Newton, C. R., Rimba, K., Mapenzi, R., Kihara, M., Van de Vijver, F. J., & Abubakar, A. (2015). Parents’ and Professionals’ Perceptions on Causes and Treatment Options for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in a Multicultural Context on the Kenyan Coast. PloS one, 10(8), e0132729.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2022, March). Autism Spectrum Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved May 26, 2022, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd
Ravindran, N., & Myers, B. J. (2012). Cultural Influences on Perceptions of Health, Illness, and Disability: A Review and Focus on Autism. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 21(2), 311-319.
This was good content for ASD. I use to work in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) which at the time only serviced children with Autism. Many misconceptions I would here would be about functioning. Most people think that those with Autism are low-functioning and/or have cognitive impairments. That is not always the case. I have worked with many children who looked and behaved "neurotypical" bit suffered with other symptoms of ASD. I have a severely autistic cousin on my father's side of the family and my father's side is born and raised Mexicans from Mexico. It is interesting hearing about the cultural barriers that get in the way for him receiving adequate care just because in our culture, needs are met by the family unit.
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